Mechanical Circulatory Support Program

Advances in Treating End-Stage Heart Failure: VADs and ECMO

Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive Heart Failure occurs when the heart is unable to maintain adequate circulation of blood in the tissues of the body or to pump out the venous blood returned to it. This weakening of the heart prevents it from circulating a sufficient quantity of oxygen to the body's tissues. Common symptoms associated with heart failure are fatigue, shortness of breath, joint swelling and weight gain.